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Adults need vaccines, too

The shots are just as important for grownups as they are for kids

Last updated: August 2012

Many people assume that vaccines become less important as they age. That's wrong. In fact, adults need some shots—such as those against shingles and pneomonia—that children don't. And grownups need booster shots against some common diseases, such as the vaccine for diptheria, tetanus, and pertusis (whooping cough).

All the vaccines listed below can cause mild side effects, including redness, soreness, or rashes around the injection site. Occasionally, more serious side effects might occur, especially in those who experience an allergic reaction. But the recommended vaccinations have very good safety records, and all offer benefits that far outweigh any risks. For more detailed advice and periodic updates, see the Centers for Disease Control's vaccine information.

Those requesting protection and sexually active adults not in
a relationship.

Adults younger than 60 who have diabetes.

Certain adults who have diabetes and are 60 or older, based on
their need for blood-glucose monitoring and other risk factors.

Those at high risk, including adults with kidney disease and
predialysis, hemodialysis, and home-dialysis patients; homosexual men; international travelers (excluding Australia, Canada, Western Europe, Japan, and New Zealand); health-care workers, and people seeking treatment for a sexually transmitted disease.

Men 19 to 21 and those 22 to 26 who have conditions that compromise their immune systems.

Influenza
Once a year, preferably in October or November.

All adults, especially those at high risk, including the very old; people who have asthma or diabetes; anyone with heart, lung, or kidney disease; women who are or will become pregnant; and caregivers of children or adults with medical conditions.

Meningitis
Once. (Booster shot every 5 years for some people at high risk because of continued exposure to the bacterium.)

People 11 to 18 years years old.

College freshmen living in dormitories, military recruits, and travelers to areas where the disease is prevalent, if they haven't been previously vaccinated.

People with impaired immunity.

Pneumonia
Once. (Booster shot after 5 years for people who got first shot before age 65 or are at very high risk.)